How tech can help children with autism

FutureLearn and the University of Bath have announced a partnership with the launch of a new course. The course, Smart-ASD: Matching autistic people with technology resources is open for enrolment and explores how children with autism can be supported by digital resources and technology.

According to the National Autistic Society, autism is much more common than many people think. There are around 700,000 people on the autism spectrum in the UK – more than 1 in 100. The charity suggests without greater public understanding, autistic people and their families are at risk of being isolated in society.

The course is free and designed to equip learners with an understanding of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and Intellectual Disability (ID) and explore how technology resources can be used to support this group.

The start of the course is coinciding with World Autism Awareness Day on 2nd April 2017 and aims to increase understanding of how children with autism can be best supported. As well as increasing overall awareness, the course further aims to provide detailed knowledge of the subject and provide solutions and advice for those working closely with children with ASD and ID. The course introduces learners to the free SMART-ASD app, helping teachers and parents to assess the needs of autistic children and identify the most suitable technology to assist their individual requirements.